3.9

Tom Fahy

Psychology - Gateway Community College

3.9
Quality
3.3
Difficulty
67%
Would Retake
88
Reviews
3.9
Quality
3.3
Difficulty
3.9
Helpful
3.9
Clarity

67%

Would Retake

88

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official
88 total ratings

5

45

4

19

3

7

2

9

1

8

What Students Say

I disagree with this way he teaches

PHY111 - 1.0 rating

I'd take the class elsewhere

PSY245 - 2.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

88%

Textbook Required

50%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 24 grades
Most common grades:
A- (10)
B+ (4)
B (3)
Grade Distribution
A(4)B(5)C(1)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(14)
Based on 29 reported grades
A-: 10
B+: 4
B: 3
A: 3
Common Tags
Get ready to read (6)
Participation matters (5)
Tough grader (4)
Tough Grader (2)
Skip class? You won't pass. (2)
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES (2)
Inspirational (2)
Hilarious (2)
Rating Trend

Stable

-0.02 avg change
Jan
Jun
Aug
Oct
Jan
May
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

PSY102

5.0

(1)

PSYCHOLOGY101

5.0

(1)

PSY122

5.0

(1)

PSY240

5.0

(5)

2700SOCIAL

5.0

(1)
+17 more courses
Difficulty by Course

MAR101

5.0

PSY101

4.0

PSYC101

4.0

PSY122

4.0

PSY1

4.0

Reviews (87)
5.0
2.0
PSY102
Sep 13, 2003

Very nice, very funny. Makes info interesting.

4.0
3.0
PSY101
Jan 17, 2005

Very good teacher if you want to go in to psy. Dont like the whole partner concept on papers. Office hours are hard to find. But a hard teacher and grader.

4.0
3.0
PSYCHOLOGY
Apr 5, 2005

he is a good guy, funny, partcipate to get the grade, study and the test r simple, hate the whole observation/partners thing, he's pretty clear on the subject, makes sure every1 knows it b4 moving on, overall, nice guy- good teacher/grader

3.0
3.0
PSYCHOLOGY
Jun 2, 2005

Should have at least a 3 for hotness

1.0
5.0
PSY101
Jun 6, 2005

Hard Test, no office hours and goal is to fail studnet

5.0
2.0
PSYCHOLOGY
Grade: B-
Oct 10, 2005

super nice, his corny humor makes class amusing at times, class worth taking

5.0
3.0
PSY101
Grade: Rather_Not_Say
Dec 14, 2005

He was very clear and to the point. Funny at times too. grading was so-so and can't read his writing on corrected observations. But overall he wasnt hard and not bad looking either!

5.0
1.0
PSYCHOLOGY101
Dec 3, 2005

easy, easy class, but i didnt find him nearly as interesting or fun as everyone has hyped him up to be.

5.0
2.0
PSYCH101
Jan 13, 2006

GREAT teacher! Took his summer class, not looking forward to the class in general, but ended up becoming fascinated with the material due to his style of teaching: knowledgeable, engaging, helpful, clear, etc. I can't say enough!

5.0
3.0
PSYCH
Jan 24, 2006

He is great. He provides you with all you need to know so you can get an A in this course. He is a very fair grader. His class requires effort as it should being a college course but he doesn't make it hard for you to excel.

5.0
2.0
PHY111
Aug 14, 2006

This guy is probably one of the smartest people i've ever met, other than professor Medina. He tells you exactly what he wants, and if you listen to him, you'll get a good grade.. just DO THE ASSIGNMENTS! thats really all he asks of you, oh + don't be late =]

1.0
5.0
MAR101
Sep 5, 2006

I had Faye Jr. and i thought he was an unfair teacher! He didnt listen to anything i had to say and it seemed as if he favored ppl in the class more than others! I dont recomend taking pych with him, if you want to have an enjoyable semister!

5.0
3.0
PSY245
Oct 5, 2006

I had Fahy Jr. and he was excellent. He gave clear assignments and challenging exams. He also had great examples from the real world. He was funny and easy on the eyes. I'd definitely take him again.

5.0
3.0
PSY111
Oct 31, 2006

He was very knowledgable and presented the material in a way that everyone could understand. He was very helpful and understanding.

5.0
3.0
PSYC101
Jan 2, 2007

The best professor in the school. Makes class very engaging. Gives thought provoking assignments. If he tought other courses, I would definitely take all of them.

4.0
3.0
PSY3053
Aug 7, 2007

Very good but at the same time hard teacher. He knowns what he's talking about and makes class fun.

3.0
3.0
PSYCH111
Aug 27, 2007

honestly, i thought he was a cocky jerk! he talked in a sarcastic tone of voice, favored people, was not helpful, and made me feel inadequate when i asked a question. his lessons were dry and to the point. the "group quizzes" were ridiculous bc we made the groups and you just got stuck with whomever. he was totally hard to please, esp with essays

4.0
5.0
PSY101
Oct 3, 2007

Involves too much advanced (bio) psych information for a 101 class. Tough grader, and not much time/office hours to clarify and ask questions regarding homework, which definitely can affect grades. Still, entertaining person (although cocky and pushes people's buttons). Class isn't boring, I'll give him that.

5.0
3.0
PSY101
Oct 7, 2007

i'm a future nursing student and this class was perfect for all in the nursing field. professor includes current biology connection to psychology and made me think about my own psychology and how it makes me deal with myself and others. a must-take class for anyone who wants to do nursing.

4.0
4.0
PSY111
Nov 27, 2007

A good teacher but boring as all hell and read the chapter before every class or you will not know what he is talking about. He does refer to the textbook at all.

5.0
3.0
PSY111
Dec 11, 2007

The subject matter is clear, and Fahy is sometimes entertaining with witty remarks. The tests are not difficult if you study the questions after each chapter, and essays/quizzes are simple if you use your notes to your advantage, and create good examples. It is lame working in groups for quizzes though. Besides that it is an enjoyable class.

5.0
5.0
PSY111
Jan 1, 2008

This guy knows his stuff. I had Fahy Sr. and he was great, too. Different styles bu equally interesting. Fahy Jr. keeps the class moving but lets you ask questions. He doesn't get caught up with petty things. He explains, gives examples and sometimes makes jokes. He keeps it entertaining. It's not easy, but if you do the work, you'll learn alot.

3.0
2.0
PSY111
Mar 10, 2008

Very interesting class but he does play favorites and can be condescending at times. Group quizzes stink!

1.0
5.0
PSYCH101
Apr 29, 2008

This class was difficult and hard to understand. Concepts and theory were unclear, no elaboration. Asking a question is kind of pointless. Group quizzes suck and there are 5 where you just get stuck with whoever! Movie review boring and so hard. Good luck trying to please this guy.

5.0
4.0
PSYCH101
May 16, 2008

This professor is completely fair and understanding. His work is not easy so don't expect an easy A, but if you do as your asked NO PROBLEM! He cares about his students and has great knowledge on the subject. I'd recommend this professor to anyone! BRAVO!!

5.0
4.0
PSY122
Nov 20, 2008

Best online class EVER! Prof Fahy was awesome. Very challenging course, only seven weeks, but Prof Fahy was online everyday. Awesome feedback, great insight. A real driver for learning the material. He's tough but really good. And funny. If you want an online challange... take him. You'll love it. Really.

3.0
5.0
PSY101
Dec 30, 2008

took his online class twice and got a C both times. i only needed a C+ to pass the class for nursing and i missed it by 2 points each time!!! the class is full time you need to be online everyday. he gives little notice about tests usually tells you the day before. tests are extrememly hard, everything else was realtively easy.

3.0
4.0
PSY245
Jan 17, 2009

Terrible. Absolutely terrible. Inconsiderate that I have a life. Like Psychology is the only chore I need to do during the day.

2.0
5.0
PSYC101
Jan 22, 2009

I have to agree, this teacher is tough. He expects you to do a lot of work, then on random days he gives group quizes where you are paired up with random people and forced to work with whoever he chooses. His tests were killer, and if you ever asked him for help he would always flip the question around and never answer. He is a psych prof after all

5.0
4.0
PSY111
Feb 5, 2009

you really should take this class if you want to learn about you. there's lots of work but if you stay on top it's pretty easy. like the classes, he's funny and gives pretty good examples. class is not difficult if you do the work. highly recommend this class if you like to be challenged.

1.0
5.0
PSY101
Feb 15, 2009

Way too much work for an intro psych class. Two essays for every test, given a week before but each must be AT LEAST 3p. & only worth 10-15 pts. Essays are very detailed and stressed me hugely. He's a funny guy and class is interesting, but don't take him for an easy intro filler course!

5.0
3.0
PSY245
Feb 19, 2009

Had the online abnormal class. Went fast but learned lots. Combined text with lots of interactive discussions and assignments. Very responsive teach, positive comments. Would take any online class with this teach.

5.0
3.0
PSY111
Feb 25, 2009

this is the perfect intro class with just the right amount of lecture and discussion. i'm away from school for ten years and very scared to go back but this professor makes school fun and exciting. i work hard in class but enjoy ther book and the class. very nice man and helpful with even with my own kids.

4.0
2.0
PSYCH111
May 7, 2009

Professor Fahy was very good. His lectures are very interesting. He likes debate and people discussing theories. He gives pop quizes, but they are open book. They exams are mupltiple choice and short answer. *All the questions are taken from the chapter review at the end of each chapter.

5.0
3.0
PSY101
May 14, 2010

He was very nice and made psychology quite fun. I very much enjoyed his class

5.0
2.0
PSY245
Jan 7, 2011

Very passionate and knowledgeable man. Keeps you interested in class with examples and stories from real-world. If you listen and talk in class, you'll do good. But take notes.

5.0
5.0
PSY101
Jan 17, 2011

Expects hard work but helps you every step of the way

5.0
3.0
PSY240
May 19, 2011

online class. Expects a lot. Assigns work that makes u think and interact with class. Quick response for any questions or help. I LOVED the class, and will take PSY245 in the CLASSROOM next semester! Not hard, but doesn't hand out A's like so many teachers that don't care to teach!! Class is a FUN challenge!!

1.0
4.0
PSY1
Jan 23, 2012

The online class isn't good. He doesn't respond to emails and questions promptly, and he requires too much work for an intro class.

5.0
4.0
PSY245
Feb 10, 2012

Wonderful online course. Lots of work, interesting assignments. Class is challenging. Very responsive teacher. Replied to me every time within 24 hours. He's great. Will take again.

4.0
1.0
PSY111
Jan 15, 2013

Very nice and understanding teacher. He is easy as long as you can manage your time well and do the work. You must spend a lot of time reviewing the book. He doesn't care which psychology book you have because they all have the same basic content.

2.0
5.0
PSY101
Mar 27, 2013

do NOT take his class. i'm not sure if he was exceptionally busy this semester but corrects took about 4 weeks and answering your questions took about1-2. he has high standards to quiz and test questions but doesn't let you know what those standards are. i am an straight a student and even this class was too much. leaves you in the dark too much.

5.0
4.0
PSY111
Apr 26, 2013

Best online class so far. Assignments made me think. Not multiple choice like so many others. There is a great amount of work and you have to follow the syllabus. But I learned a great amount about topics and myself. His class is challenging but rewarding.

4.0
5.0
PSY111
May 15, 2013

The study guide will save your life, so stick to it!

5.0
4.0
PSY111
Jun 2, 2013

Whew! Intense class! Lots of work. I agree with others that you learn a great amount. My brain hurt but in a good way.

5.0
2.0
PSY245
Dec 29, 2013

Lots of work but practical. Assignments related to counseling real clients. Have to be prepared but good class. Would recommend.

4.0
2.0
PSY111
Jan 2, 2014

I took his Hybrid class, very interesting and he was a nice and funny teacher. basically took notes on the one class all day and assignments online were pretty basic. I enjoyed it a lot and the teacher was very easy-going.

2.0
5.0
PSY245
Jan 19, 2014

I'd take the class elsewhere. Tests are IMPOSSIBLE - I got on B, 2 D's and a C. I'm an older student going on her 3rd degree and I couldn't believe how hard this course was. If you have to take this class on-line, do really well on the discussions because the tests are a 3 hour exercise of how quickly you can find the obscure answers in your text.

5.0
3.0
PSY245
Jan 25, 2014

I got 2 A's and B on the exams. I'm an older student who studied a great deal. If you take this class on-line, be prepared to work hard as there isn't any easy assignments. Finally, if you study well for the exams, no need to worry about looking up the answers in the text, the info will be in your head. This class not for slackers.

5.0
2.0
PSY240
Feb 20, 2014

great class not many assignments, took over the winter and learned it easy, teacher online every day explained info and worked on deadlines with my work schedule. i would take again.

5.0
2.0
PSY245
Grade: B+
Jul 2, 2014

Awesome class. Lots of flexibility with deadlines. Worked with my work schedule. Really liked online component, lots of video material. Fast paced, intense, but fun.

5.0
2.0
PSY245
Grade: A-
Jul 30, 2014

Class was fast for summer session. Pretty difficult tests. Used all three hours to complete each. Best part is discussions. Open responses that stick to the online videos. Great class. Learned a lot.

2.0
3.0
PSY101
Oct 17, 2014

Professor Fahy was not a terrible professor, but not the best. We had long lectures where he bulleted out the notes but that all we did. Then we had very long difficult exams, where he did not limit down any of the info and expected us to know it all. He assigned a 10 pg paper that he definitely just counted the pages and didn't grade fairly.

4.0
4.0
PSYCHOLOGY
Nov 24, 2014

Fahy was an awesome guy super funny and kept the class entertained. He doesn't give homework. He gives 3 pop quizzes which you get to do with a partner with open note & book & he tends to leave during it, a film review you get a partner with, and the midterm and final. He is a tough grader though. Definitely get on his good side. I would take again

5.0
3.0
PSY245
Dec 31, 2014

Took the online abnormal class and the material really made me get inside my own head. Videos were awesome and case study discussions were interesting. He's a tough grader but he will tell you what to add. Would definitely take again.

5.0
3.0
2700SOCIAL
Grade: A-
Jan 17, 2015

Just took my final for his online Social Psych class over this Winter Break. His tests are definitely tough and even though you have the textbook at hand the questions can be really tricky and often are thought experiments. I think I pulled an A- in the class which is nice, but for an online class the material is not easy but its a quick 4 weeks.

4.0
3.0
ABNORMALPSY
Grade: B
Jan 18, 2015

Took this online class because I'm trying to graduate early from my 4-year institution, so I could care less about my grade. That aside, the tests are long and arduous. Before starting a test, take a piss, grab a snack, and prepare to be mentally drained by the time you're finished.

2.0
2.0
PS240
Jan 18, 2015

He is not a hard grader but his exams are very long. I took it online and they were 3 hours each and many of the questions were not in the book (which I don't think is completely fair). You have 5 discussions which you must complete based on mypsychlab, and those were relatively straightforward. You also have pre and post tests for each module

2.0
1.0
SOCIALPSYCH
Grade: A
Jan 18, 2015

I got a 97 in the online class. I didnt have to work that hard but the exams are really long

5.0
3.0
PSY245
Grade: A-
Feb 6, 2015

I took abnormal psych over winter break and loved it. Lots of real life assignments and professor always willing to clarify tricky concepts. I used cases from my internship and professor reviewed each individually with me.

5.0
3.0
PSY240
Grade: A-
Feb 7, 2015

Class not too difficult if you read. Online assignments are pretty straightforward. A fast intersession but class allows you to move at your own pace. I'd take again.

3.0
4.0
PSYCH
Grade: C-
Mar 3, 2015

Expects a lot out of an intro class. Gives a lot of information at once. Be prepared to work a lot harder than expected.

5.0
3.0
PSY111
Mar 4, 2015

Class worked good for my schedule. Good web based videos helped me learn the material. Class very organized but teacher was flexible. Definitely take again.

5.0
3.0
PSY240
Grade: A-
Apr 6, 2015

It was a quick class and a lot of work but it was all there for you, just have to do the reading and the discussions. You learn a ton of stuff in just a month. Would definitely take again if I had the time.

4.0
3.0
PSY111
Grade: B+
Jun 1, 2015

Professor Fahy was very clear in his lectures and very helpful on the side. If I had any questions of psychology, whether it be class related or even personal questions, Professor Fahy aided me. The lectures can feel somewhat long, but as long as you write down all the notes he has on the board and study them, you should do fine. Would recommend

3.0
4.0
PSY245
Grade: B+
Jul 6, 2015

This was my 1st online class. A lot of reading and participation. Exams were tough. You will need to do the reading and keep up with Discussions. Prof is not quick on getting back. You seem to hang in the wind while waiting a response to an important question. I wouldn't take this class if you really want to learn. Too much info to digest.

5.0
3.0
PSY240
Grade: B
Jul 20, 2015

Lots of work in a small time but very open to your own style of learning. You can do most of the assignments on your time frame. Flexible time made it better to manage with my work schedule.

5.0
2.0
PSY111
Grade: A-
Aug 3, 2015

Class lectures were surprisingly interesting and interactive even though they required a lot of note taking. He never assigns homework except for an occasional paper. Pop quizzes are open note and can be completed in a groupwith a partner usually. You don't NEED the textbook but it's very helpful in studying for the midterm and final tests.

5.0
4.0
PSY111
Grade: A-
Oct 8, 2015

Loved the class. Lots of reading but class discussions were good and funny. Notes on board useful for studying. You will get a good grade if you just read and participate.

5.0
1.0
CIV101
Grade: A+
Nov 6, 2015

This guy is old school in a new school way. he is set in his right wing conservative opinions but he really appreciated the fact that my hippie-ass had well formed responses and questions. just participate, take notes on his lectures because you never use the text and the tests are handwritten essays in little blue SAT notebooks.

5.0
4.0
PSY245
Grade: B
Feb 28, 2016

I liked the online Psy 245 class. It was challenging to get it all done but just followed syllabus and it was self explanatory. Professor Fahy was wicked accommodating for my schedule. He worked with me all semester.

5.0
3.0
PSY111
May 9, 2016

I loved this class, the lectures require a lot of note taking but I learned so much. Prof Fahy teaches very well and inspired me to learn. Pop quizzes are open note and open book. Tests are difficult if you are not prepared. Well rounded course, I recommend it. The papers assigned are interesting topics. Easy to balance with schedule.

4.0
4.0
PSY245
Grade: Not sure yet
Jul 1, 2016
Would take again

Very detailed oriented in his discussion assignments, he require some in depth knowledge of the materials in the text.

4.0
5.0
PSY111
Grade: Rather not say
Dec 17, 2016
Would take again

Forget POP QUIZ day, we had a POP FINAL! If you want to skate by, Don't come here. If you are committed to learning Psychology, He's your guy. All lectures, take good notes, and study them like the bible. you'll have three pop quiz's a midterm, a pop final exam, a film review essay, and a connect activity. Do those, and you'll pass.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
4.0
4.0
PHY111
Apr 9, 2017
Would take again

Great professor! If you are committed to learning Psychology, he's your guy. If you think you can take his class and not even try, think again. You must be very committed to this course and follow the syllabus to pass.

Inspirational
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
Hilarious
2.0
5.0
PSY111
Grade: A-
Dec 21, 2017
Wouldn't take again

I really wanted to like this professor. The class was difficult due to him keeping you guessing on the flow of things. If you like routine, predictability, and having some idea of what's on tests/quizzes, this isn't the guy for you. I recommend him for those who want to go into psych as a major. For anyone else, steer clear due to difficulty.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
5.0
4.0
PSY111
Grade: B-
May 17, 2018
Would take again

He's a highly intelligent man and you can see that throughout his lectures. You definitely need to pay attention to his lectures and study in order to pass the exams. He always early to class and typically stays after if students have any questions. The class is a bit difficult but what do you expect with a psychologist for a professor.

Gives good feedback
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
3.0
PHY111
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 25, 2019
Wouldn't take again

I disagree with this way he teaches. He doesnt say when tests are, no study guide, end of semester and we never opened our $130 books. He never put grades in, very vague, doesnt respond to e-mails. I need this credit and I honestly would rather take this credit again with a different professor, which I will be. If he doesnt care, then I dont.

2.0
3.0
PHY111
May 14, 2019
Wouldn't take again

I took his online class. This teacher took forever to grade work and enter grades. He would say things like "I want more" when it came to discussions, but was very vague about what he really wanted in the posted discussions. There is a lot of reading with this class with intermittent quizzes (they don't count)

Get ready to read
4.0
3.0
PSY111
Grade: B+
Jun 1, 2019
Would take again

Absolutely a wonderful teacher to take for Psychology!! I loved every moment of his class!

Lots of homework
Participation matters
Beware of pop quizzes
1.0
5.0
PSY245
Jan 13, 2022
Wouldn't take again

Fahy Jr. was a ghost. Homework took forever to be graded. He seemed to make it as hard as possible for you to get an A. Material not even covered in all the text was in exams. First one is proctored for some reason, but not the rest. Had vague feedback for discussions. Don't know what he wanted to give an A. Maybe he's better live than fully online

Tough grader
5.0
3.0
PSY101
Grade: A-
Jun 16, 2022
Would take again

he was a good professpor, taking notes was easy in his class totally recommended

Participation matters
Group projects
Respected
4.0
3.0
PSY111
Grade: A-
Aug 11, 2022
Would take again

I took the online summer course. Felt like he was a tough grader when it came to the discussion topic posts. Overall, as long as you keep up with the reading and all of the other course work, you should be able to get a good grade. I should also mention that this was my first course after being out of college for 9 years.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Participation matters
4.0
5.0
PSY111
Aug 20, 2022
Would take again

Taking his course for psych 111 after being out of school for almost 10 yrs and was able to get an A. I did read and listen to the audio of the book during my drives to work an home, as well. The discussions took me a while to right and I think hes a tough grader, but I guess he his own grading rubric to identify which discussion deserves a 50.

Tough grader
Clear grading criteria
Participation matters
1.0
4.0
PHY111
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 16, 2022

He's not clear on how he wants his discussions answered.. you literally wait days to get an email back. Just avoid him at all costs if you're doing online psy class. Seems his live classes have better results but as an online class, run away run far far away. I'm sure I'll be dropping soon

Tough grader
Get ready to read
4.0
1.0
PSY
Grade: A
Jan 27, 2023
Would take again

There are no home works and all exams and pop quizzes are true to content. Participation matters and so does reading after class. He is flexible with deadlines all you have to do is communicate well. you will have access to notes during pop quizzes and you could do it in groups too. better grades for essays that covers more concepts in simple words

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Beware of pop quizzes
5.0
3.0
PSY
Grade: A
May 12, 2023
Would take again

Great amazing teacher. Very lecture heavy so pay attention. Always helps me after class when I am stuck. I would definitely take a class with him again.

Inspirational
Hilarious
Caring
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

88%

Textbook Required

50%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 24 grades
Most common grades:
A- (10)
B+ (4)
B (3)
Grade Distribution
A(4)B(5)C(1)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(14)
Based on 29 reported grades
A-: 10
B+: 4
B: 3
A: 3
Common Tags
Get ready to read (6)
Participation matters (5)
Tough grader (4)
Tough Grader (2)
Skip class? You won't pass. (2)
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES (2)
Inspirational (2)
Hilarious (2)
Rating Trend

Stable

-0.02 avg change
Jan
Jun
Aug
Oct
Jan
May
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

PSY102

5.0

(1)

PSYCHOLOGY101

5.0

(1)

PSY122

5.0

(1)

PSY240

5.0

(5)

2700SOCIAL

5.0

(1)
+17 more courses
Difficulty by Course

MAR101

5.0

PSY101

4.0

PSYC101

4.0

PSY122

4.0

PSY1

4.0

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